Aloha Theatre on Big Island Blends Live Entertainment, History

Located in the quaint town of Kainaliu, Aloha Theatre is currently one of the few theaters on the Big Island that is still functioning. Aloha Theatre serves mainly as an outlet for a local drama group that carefully chooses productions and rehearses for months. However, the locale also presents live music and other performances.

On any given night at Aloha Theatre, one may find a reggae band or a production of Fiddler on the Roof. The building is lovely; architecture and history buffs alike will enjoy checking it out. Since nightlife is generally pretty mellow on the Big Island, a theatrical production or live music can serve as delightful after-dark entertainment. Why not catch dinner and drinks beforehand in Kona?

Construction for the theater began in 1929, by a Japanese family who owned a few others on the island. It was originally called Tanimoto Theater. Under that name, the theater showed both American and Japanese films for workers in the Kona coffee industry.

After World War II, the name changed to Aloha Theatre, but the entertainment spot was shut down in the 1970s. Much to the delight of local drama folk, it was later restored and reopened. Instead of playing movies, it now plays mostly live events. But older movie are occasionally shown.

The theater also houses a restaurant. And since 2003, Aloha Theatre has been home to the Aloha Performing Arts Company. They do all of their performances here.

Just a short drive from Kainaliu is beautiful Kailua-Kona. Before an evening performance, visitors can enjoy all that the beach town has to offer. Dine at hot spots like Huggo's, where you'll find Pacific Rim-themed seafood dishes, cocktails and steaks served at this oceanside eatery.

To start the night at a more upbeat restaurant, try Kona Brewing Company, Big Island's most famous brewery. Kona's on-premises brewpub serves cold mugs of the brewery's top sellers, including Fire Rock Pale, Pacific Golden Ale and Longboard Lager. The cozy setting easily pulls you in, making it difficult to leave. Great Hawaiian-influenced pub grub - pizzas, salads and sandwiches - is also available. Sample what's in season, since the rest of the brews can be found all year long.

Another eatery fit for pre- or post-theater fun is Humpy's Big Island Ale House. Here, a huge array of beers on tap and really good bar food make for happy days and fun-filled nightlife. Located on Kailua's main and front street along the ocean, the pub is a popular hangout with both locals and visitors alike, so you'll get the best of both worlds.

Enjoy Aloha Theatre for a start or finish to nightlife in Kona. Always check their website beforehand for an up-to-date event listing.